New Zealand opener Devon Conway has been ruled out of the first ODI against India after suffering a head injury during a training session at Eden Park in Auckland on Tuesday, ahead of the series opener scheduled for Wednesday.
Conway was injured following a collision with fast bowler Matt Henry during the team’s pre-match practice. According to reports, the incident prompted immediate medical attention, with the opener taken away from the training venue for further assessment.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner confirmed that Henry appeared to be fine after undergoing concussion assessments, but expressed concern over Conway’s condition.
“Matt went through his concussion thing. He seems okay, but Dev’s been raced off-premises. So, yeah, it didn’t look too good, actually, that collision,” Santner told reporters.
The setback adds to New Zealand’s injury concerns ahead of the three-match ODI series. Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra have already been ruled out due to hamstring and shoulder injuries, respectively.
Wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert, who was initially included for only the first two ODIs, has now been added to the squad for the entire series. Santner indicated that Seifert could replace Conway in the playing XI if the opener remains unavailable.
The New Zealand captain described Conway’s potential absence as a significant setback, praising his contributions and abilities in the 50-over format.
The ODI series begins on November 4 in Auckland, following India’s 3-2 victory in the five-match T20I series. India secured an unassailable 3-0 lead after winning the first three matches, but New Zealand bounced back by claiming the final two games.
The hosts will aim to carry that momentum into the ODI leg, while India will look to begin the series with a victory.
